"I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crises. The great point is to bring them the real facts."

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Abraham Lincoln
(1809 – 1865)








Class Schedule:

Period 1: Room 230
Period 2: Room 230

Course Description:

This will be an interesting and challenging course examining American politics. We first will work on examining what makes a democracy then we will start revewing our political history ultimaely ending at voting patterns and trends today. Through our explorations, you will further develop your study and thinking skills, and will continue to take charge of your learning. Moreover, you actively will be engaged with your learning process through such activities as group discussions/debates, projects, and presentations.

As your teacher, my overriding objective is to make this an interesting and fun class that challenges you to think in new ways, that encourages a love of learning, a better knowledge of the foundation of American political beliefs and to fosters a classroom community of mutual respect.

Course Outline (tentative):

Unit 1 - What is a Democracy?
Unit 2 - History of U.S. Government
Unit 3 - The 3 Branches of Government
Unit 4 - How a Bill becomes a Law
Unit 5 - Federal/State/Local Government
Unit 6 - Contro. Issues
Unit 7 - Voting


Materials needed for the course:

  1. Notebook
  2. Folder
  3. An username to answer Discussion Questions on this website (Check the Discussion tab)

Grading:

During the semester your grade will be based off of:
  1. In-Class & Out of Class Projects
  2. Group WebQuest
  3. Township Meeting Paper
  4. Responses to Discussion Questions
  5. Homework
  6. Test/Quizzes
  7. Class Participation


Remember:

  1. I want you to have fun and to get something out of this class.
  2. To be knowledgeable citizens for your lives ahead.
  3. To be ready for whatever post-high school track that you choose.


Class Handouts:


Town Meeting Paper Rubric.doc
Supreme Court Cases.doc
Supreme Court Cases.doc

Homework/Upcoming Assignments:

1) Government Meeting Paper - Due: 12/13/10

2) Supreme Court Case Debate - Start: 10/1/10

3) Ch. 2 Test - 10/13/10